Pet door

ABSTRACT

A pet door is provided herein. The pet door includes a pivotal flap and a frame that defines a through-way. A rotatable knob is mounted to the frame and has a handle portion and a stop wall. The handle portion and stop wall include various profiles and configurations that work in concert to control the flap&#39;s direction of pivotal movement. In a first configuration, the flap may swing outwardly or inwardly. A second configuration prevents the flap from swinging inwardly. A third configuration prevents the flap from swinging outwardly. A fourth configuration places the flap is in a locked position to prevent swinging in either direction. The electronic door also includes an electronic latch mechanism which selectively latches and unlatches the flap. The latch mechanism unlatches the flap in response to a wireless signal from an electronic transmitter that may be affixed to a pet.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Applicant claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.No. 62/547,370 filed Aug. 18, 2017 and entitled Electronic Pet Door.This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/104,639 filed Aug. 17, 2018 and entitled “Electronic Pet Door”.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This section is intended to introduce various aspects of the art, whichmay be associated with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.This discussion is believed to assist in providing a framework tofacilitate a better understanding of particular aspects of the presentdisclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that this sectionshould be read in this light, and not necessarily as admissions of priorart.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention pertains to a pet door for granting an animal access to athrough-way defined by the pet door. More particularly, this inventionpertains to a pet door for automatically granting a selected animalaccess to the through-way and automatically denying a non-selectedanimal access to the through-way while also allowing only certainpassage direction through the pet door.

TECHNOLOGY IN THE FIELD OF THE INVENTION

When creating a selective entry pet door, one of the major keycomponents to its functionality is the locking mechanism. One of thedifficulties with creating an effective locking mechanism is needing themechanism to re-latch the door flap regardless of its motion/locationduring the re-latching event. Some doors require timed lockingmechanisms that ensure the door flap is in the correct position beforere-latching.

Latching mechanisms for pet doors have existed for many years. U.S. Pat.No. 9,217,279B2, U.S. Pat. No. 9,284,773B1, US20130247834A1, and U.S.Pat. No. 7,583,931B2 outline a method of locking/unlocking by using asolenoid actuated plunger. U.S. Pat. No. 5,967,215A outlines a method oflocking/unlocking by using a manually actuated mechanical slide. U.S.Pat. No. 7,765,955B2 outlines a method of locking/unlocking by using aslider crank and worm gear mechanism to drive the latch vertically. U.S.Pat. No. 5,469,659A utilizes a magnetic see-saw that actuates the latchwhen a pet with a magnetic collar enters the area where the magneticsee-saw is located. Patent publication number EP2983141A1 utilizes aspiral shaped camming device, directly mounted to an electric motor'sdrive shaft, to move the latch vertically.

The invention disclosed here utilizes an over center 3 bar linkagesystem to ensure the lock remains locked/unlocked, regardless of outsideforces acting on the latch. The linkage system also features a slot toallow the 3rd linkage to slide freely without affecting the product'slock/unlock setting.

Accordingly, a need exists for an improved pet door which latches thedoor to prevent unwanted entry.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A pet door comprises a frame, a flap pivotally coupled to the frame, theflap having a top portion and a bottom portion opposite the top portion,the bottom portion having an interior flange with at least one outwardlyextending interior side wall and an exterior flange with at least oneoutwardly extending exterior side wall, a knob rotatably coupled to theframe. The knob has a first portion with a select height to allow thepivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the knob, a secondportion with a select height to abut the flap bottom portion to preventthe pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the knob, thesecond portion having a slot or slots configured to receive the sidewall or side walls of the interior flange, a third portion with a selectheight to allow the pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past theknob, and a fourth portion with a select height to abut the flap bottomportion to prevent the pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion pastthe knob. The fourth portion having a slot or slots configured toreceive the side wall or side walls of the interior flange. The knobalso having a stop wall having a stop wall first portion aligned withthe knob first portion and a select height to allow the pivotal movementof the flap bottom portion past the stop wall, a stop wall secondportion aligned with the knob second portion and a select height toallow the pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the stopwall, a stop wall third portion aligned with the knob third portion anda select height to prevent the pivotal movement of the flap bottomportion past the stop wall, and a fourth portion aligned with the knobfourth portion and a select height to prevent the pivotal movement ofthe flap bottom portion past the stop wall. The third and fourthportions each having a slot or slots configured to receive the side wallor side walls of the exterior flange.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the present inventions can be betterunderstood, certain illustrations are appended hereto. It is to benoted, however, that the drawings illustrate only selected embodimentsof the inventions and are therefore not to be considered limiting ofscope, for the inventions may admit to other equally effectiveembodiments and applications.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the rear side of a pet door of thepresent invention, in one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an exploded, perspective view of the pet door of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the front side of the pet door of FIG.1.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portion of the latch mechanism showingthe knob or manual lock of the pet door of FIG. 1 in a first position.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the latch mechanism showingthe knob or manual lock of the pet door of FIG. 1 in a second position.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of the latch mechanism showingthe knob or manual lock of the pet door of FIG. 1 in a third position.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of the latch mechanism showingthe knob or manual lock of the pet door of FIG. 1 in a fourth position.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a linkage portion of the latch mechanismof the pet door of FIG. 1, shown in a first, unlocked position.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a linkage portion of the latch mechanismof the pet door of FIG. 1, shown in a second, locked position.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of the latch mechanism of the petdoor of FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 is a view of a latch mechanism of a pet door of the presentinvention, in another embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a portion of the latch mechanismshowing the knob or manual lock of the pet door of FIG. 11 in a secondposition.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a portion of the latch mechanismshowing the knob or manual lock of the pet door of FIG. 11 in a thirdposition.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged perspective view of the a portion of the latchmechanism showing the knob or manual lock of the pet door of FIG. 1 in afourth position and the stop plate in an overhanging lip configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS Definitions

For purposes of the present disclosure, it is noted that spatiallyrelative terms, such as “up,” “down,” “right,” “left,” “beneath,”“below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper” and the like, may be used herein forease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship toanother element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It willbe understood that the spatially relative terms are intended toencompass different orientations of the device in use or operation inaddition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if thedevice in the figures is turned over or rotated, elements described as“below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented“above” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below”can encompass both an orientation of above and below.

DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of one embodiment of a pet door 10constructed in accordance with the various features of the presentinvention. The pet door 10 includes a frame 12 and a flap 14, shown inthe drawings as being transparent. The frame 12 includes an exterior,first frame member 16 and an interior, second frame member 18. The termsinterior and exterior as used herein are intended to be with respect tothe interior and exterior of a house or dwelling to which the pet door10 is mounted. The first frame member 16 is mechanically secured to thesecond frame member 18 such that the frame 12 defines a through-way 20.In operation, the pet door 10 automatically grants a selected animalaccess through a through-way 20 defined by the pet door 10 and denies anon-selected animal access through the through-way 20.

The flap 14 is constructed of a substantially rigid material, such as,but not limited to, a plastic, and includes an interior or inside facingsurface (best seen at 22 in FIG. 3) and an exterior surface 24 oppositethe interior surface 22. The flap 14 is disposed within the through-way20 such that the contour of the flap 14 is substantially aligned withthe corresponding contour of the through-way 20. The flap 14 pivotsbi-directionally at the hinge or pivot in response to a lateral forceapplied at the flap 14, which may include the lateral force of an animallaterally pushing against the flap 14.

FIG. 2 provides an exploded, perspective view of the pet door 10. Asshown in FIG. 2, the first frame member 16 has an opening 34 thereinwhich partially defines the through-way (seen at 20 in FIG. 1). Thefirst frame member 16 also has two oppositely disposed screw mountingholes 36 there through.

Also visible in FIG. 2, the second frame member 18 includes a mountingplate 38 and a cover plate 40. The mounting plate 38 is configured tonest within the peripheral margin of the cover plate 40. The mountingplate 38 includes a peripheral mounting flange 42 and an elongated,tubular channel 44 which partially defines through-way (best seen at 20in FIG. 1). The mounting plate 38 also has a pair of oppositely disposedscrew mounting holes 46 which align with the screw mounting holes 36 ofthe first frame member 16 and are configured to threadably receivethreaded mounting screws 48 passing there through. The mounting plate 38also has four screw mounting holes 49 that are disposed adjacent therounded corners of the mounting plate 38.

The cover plate 40 includes a peripheral margin or flange 52 and anelongated, tubular channel 54 configured to telescopically fit withinthe tubular channel 44 of mounting plate 38. The tubular channel 54 ofthe cover plate 40 has two oppositely disposed flap pivot holes 50 whichreceive the flap pivot pins 28 therein for pivotal movement of the flap14. The peripheral flange 52 has four screw mounting holes 55 alignedwith mounting plate screw mounting holes 49 and adapted to receivethreaded screws 57. The top surface of the peripheral flange 52 has abattery compartment 56 (discussed in more detail with regard to FIG. 3.

The pet door 10 also includes an automatic electronic latch mechanismseen best in FIGS. 3, 8, and 9 at 94) which selectively latches andunlatches the flap 14. FIG. 2 shows a circuit board 100 including amicroprocessor 102, and an electric motor 96, which work in concert tocontrol the opening and closing of the latch mechanism 94. The electricmotor 96 is electrically coupled to the circuit board 100 and powered bya set of batteries (shown at 60 in FIG. 3) through one or moreelectrical wires or connectors 98. The circuit board 100 includes awireless signal receiver 104 which receives wireless signals from awireless electronic transmitter 106 coupled to a pet's collar, or aninternally implanted transmitter surgically inserted into a pet.

FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the front of the pet door 10. Asshown, the battery compartment 56 is overlaid by a pivotal or removablebattery door 58. The battery compartment 56 houses batteries 60 whichare the power source for the electronic door 10. An on/off/programmingswitch 62 is also housed beneath the battery door 58 and electricallycoupled to the batteries 60 and the circuit board (100 of FIG. 2) toenergize the circuit board and the actuation of the electronic latchmechanism 94, as described hereinafter.

As shown in FIG. 3, the flap 14 has a top portion 26 which includes twooppositely disposed pivot pins or posts 28 and a bottom edge, margin orportion 30 opposite the top portion 26. Two magnets 32 are coupled tothe flap 14 closely adjacent the bottom portion 30. The flap bottomportion 30 also includes an interior U-shaped flange 31 extendingoutwardly from the interior surface 22 of the flap. The interiorU-shaped flange 31 has a pair of side walls 33 bridged or spanned by anend wall 35. The interior U-shaped flange 31 forms an interior groove 43defined by the side walls 33 and end wall 35. Similarly, the flapexterior surface 24 has an exterior U-shaped flange 37 having a pair ofside walls 39 bridged or spanned by an end wall 38. The exteriorU-shaped flange 37 forms an exterior groove 45 defined by the side walls39 and end wall 38.

FIG. 3 also shows a pair of stop openings 64 and a centrally locatedknob opening 66 on the cover plate 40. A rotatable knob 68 is positionedwithin the knob opening 66 for 360 degree rotation therein.

The cover plate 40 has a pair of magnets 92 positioned on opposite sidesof the knob 68 and aligned to magnetically attract or engage the pair offlap magnets 32. The magnetic attraction between the magnets 92 and 32aid the gravitational movement and maintenance of the flap 14 to aclosed position by drawing the flap to the correct position relative tothe cover plate 40. The magnets 92 and 32 also aid in preventing theunwanted movement or pivoting of the flap 14 by subtle outside forces,such as wind.

FIGS. 4 through 7 provide perspective front views of the rotatable knob68 in various positions along the 360 degree axis. These figuresdemonstrate that rotation of the knob controls the swinging direction ofthe flap (14 at FIG. 3).

As shown in FIG. 4, the rotatable knob 68 has a handle portion 70 and astop plate, stop wall portion or stop wall 72 separated from each otherby a space or groove 74. The bottom portion 30 of flap 14 ispositionable within the space or groove 74 when the flap is in a closedposition (seen more clearly in FIG. 3). The handle portion 70 isgenerally rectangular in shape with, and in the first position, aradially extending first wall or portion 76 of the handle 70 is shown.As shown, the first wall or portion 76 has a radially low profile whichallows the inward swinging or passage of the flap (14 at FIG. 3). Therotatable knob 68 or handle portion 70 is considered to be an interiorportion as it is positioned within the interior of the home with respectto the pet door 10, while the stop wall 72 is considered to be anexterior portion as it is positioned at the exterior of the home withrespect to the pet door 10.

FIG. 5 shows the knob 68 in a second position. When so oriented, aradially extending second portion 78 of the knob 68, which has aradially high profile, prevents the inward swinging or passage of theflap (14 at FIG. 3). The knob second portion 78 includes a pair ofcut-outs or slots 69 configured to receive the side walls 33 of the flapinterior U-shaped flange 31 while the end wall 35 is positioned belowthe edge or at the bottom surface of the knob second wall 78, as bestshown in FIG. 10. The slots 69 form a tongue 71 between the two slots 69that is received within the interior groove 43 of the interior U-shapedflange 31.

FIG. 6 shows the knob 68 in a third position. In the third position, aradially extending third wall or portion 80 of the knob 68, which has aradially low profile, allows the inward swinging or passage of the flap(14 at FIG. 3).

FIG. 7 shows the knob 68 in a fourth position. When oriented in thefourth position, a radially extending fourth wall or portion 82 of theknob 68, which has a radially high profile, prevents the inward swingingor passage of the flap (14 at FIG. 3). The knob fourth portion 82includes a pair of cut-outs or slots 69 configured to receive the sidewalls 33 of the flap interior flange 31 while the end wall 35 ispositioned below the edge or at the bottom surface of the knob fourthportion 82. The slots 69 form a tongue 71 between the two slots 69 thatis received within the interior groove 43 of the interior flange 31.

Thus, according to FIGS. 4-7, when the knob 68 is rotated to a positionwherein either the second or fourth portion 78 or 82 is positioned atthe top, the flap (14 at FIG. 3) is prevented from swinging inwardly bythe abutment of either portion 78 or 82 against the flap. With the knob68 rotated to a position wherein either the first or third portion 76 or80 is positioned at the top, the flap (14 at FIG. 3) passes unobstructedover the lower profile of these portions of the knob 68.

Also in FIG. 4, the knob stop wall 72 is asymmetrical with a radiallyextending first portion 84 aligned with the knob first portion 76 andhaving a radially low profile which allows the outward swinging orpassage of the flap (14 at FIG. 3). The term “aligned with” as usedherein is intended to mean a longitudinal alignment along the axis ofrotation of the knob 68.

In FIG. 5, a radially extending second portion 86 of the knob stop wall72 is aligned with the knob second portion 78 and has a radially lowprofile which allows the outward swinging or passage of the flap (14 atFIG. 3).

FIG. 6 shows a radially extending third portion 88 of the knob stop wall72 aligned with the knob third portion 80 and having a radially highprofile which prevents the outward swinging or passage of the flap (14at FIG. 3). The stop wall third portion 88 includes a pair of cut-outsor slots 91 configured to receive the side walls 39 of the flap exteriorU-shaped flange 37. The slots 91 form an tongue 93 between the two slots91 that is received within the exterior groove 45 of the exterior flange37 with the end wall 38 positioned below the lip or tongue 93 of thestop wall between the two slots 91. The slots 91 and overhangingconfiguration of a lip or tongue 93 is best shown in FIG. 14, the slots91 and tongue 93 also being of similar construction in the otherportions of the stop wall.

In FIG. 7, a radially extending fourth portion 90 of the knob stop wall72 is shown aligned with the knob fourth portion 82 and having aradially high profile which prevents the outward swinging or passage ofthe flap (14 at FIG. 3). The stop wall fourth portion 90 includes a pairof cut-outs or slots 91 configured to receive the side walls 39 of theflap exterior flange 37. The slots 91 form a tongue 93 between the twoslots 91 that is received within the exterior groove 45 of the exteriorflange 37 with the end wall 38 positioned below the lip or tongue 93 ofthe stop wall between the two slots 91.

FIGS. 8 and 9 provide detailed perspective view of a portion of thelatch mechanism 94.

As shown in FIG. 8, the electric motor 96 is coupled to an over centerthree bar linkage system 110. The linkage system 110 includes a firstlink 112 in the form of a pivot arm 114 coupled to the end of a driveshaft 116 of the electric motor 96. The pivot arm 114 has a radiallyoffset pivot pin 118 which is passed through a pivot pin opening 120extending through one end of a second link 122. FIG. 9 shows that thesecond link 122 also has a second pivot pin opening 124 which includes afirst portion 126 and a second portion 128 which are interconnected toeach other. A pivot pin 130 of a third link 132 is positioned within thesecond pivot pin opening 124 for movement between the first openingportion 126 and the second opening portion 128. The third link 132 is inthe form of an elongated arm extending to an axle 136 rotatably coupledto the cover plate 40. The third link 132 also includes a pair ofgenerally L-shaped arms 138 which each terminate with a foot, projectionor stop (shown at 140 in FIG. 4). The stops 140 are positioned toreciprocally move through the frame opening (seen at 64 of FIGS. 3 and4) between a first, extended, engaging position and a second, retracted,disengaging position. A coil spring 142 is mounted upon the axel 136 soas to spring bias the third link 132 towards its stops 140 first,extended, engaging position, shown in FIG. 9.

In the illustrated embodiments of the pet door 10, to ensure that theflap 14 is at the closed position when a lateral force is not applied atthe flap 14, the frame 12 is disposed such that gravity forces the flap14 to the closed position when a lateral force is not applied. Theplacement of magnets 32 and 92 aid in positioning and maintaining theflap 14 in the generally vertical, closed position. It should be notedthat a mechanical device other than magnets, such as a spring, can beused to force the flap 14 to the closed position in the absence of alateral force without departing from the scope or spirit of the presentinvention.

With the knob 68 in the first position of FIG. 4, the knob's firstportion 76 is positioned upwardly, and the low profile of the firstportion 76 allows the flap 14 to swing inwardly (towards the interior ofthe house). Similarly, the low profile of the stop wall first portion 84allows the flap 14 to swing outwardly (towards the exterior of thehouse). Thus, the knob 68 does not hamper or prevent any pivotalmovement of the flap 14. However, as shown in FIG. 3, the latchmechanism 94 does prevent the inwardly movement of the flap 14 toprevent the entrance or access of unwanted animals, as the stops 140 ofthe third link 132 are spring-biasly positioned in an upward positionabutting the bottom portion 30 of the flap 14.

When a pet having the appropriate transmitter 106 approaches the petdoor 10, the wireless signal from the transmitter 106 is received by thereceiver 104 and the signal is sent to the microprocessor 102. Themicroprocessor 102 then energizes the motor 96 to rotate the drive shaft116 and first link 112 in a counterclockwise direction with respect tothe figures shown in the drawings. As shown in FIG. 8, the movement ofthe first link 112 moves the second link 122 downwardly, therebypivoting the third link 132 downwardly against the biasing force ofspring 142. The movement of the third link moves the stops 140 of theL-shaped arms 138 to their retracted positions. Once the stops 140 arein their retracted positions, the flap 14 is free to move inwardly toallow entrance of the pet.

Thus, when the knob 68 is in its first position of FIG. 4, the flap isable to pivot outwardly to allow the pet to egress or exit the housethrough the through-way 20. However, the latch mechanism prevents entryinto the house through the inward pivoting of the flap 14 through theupward positioning of the stops 140 of the third link 132, unless awireless signal is transmitted from transmitter 106 and received byreceiver 104 to retract the stops 140.

With the knob 68 in the second position of FIG. 5, the knob's secondportion 78 is positioned upwardly, and the high profile of the secondportion 78 prevents the flap 14 from swinging inwardly (towards theinterior of the house). However, the low profile of the stop wall secondportion 86 allows the flap 14 to swing outwardly (towards the exteriorof the house). Thus, the knob 68 prevents the inward movement of theflap 14 while allowing the outward movement of the flap 14. The latchmechanism 94 also prevents the inwardly movement of the flap 14 toprevent the entrance or ingress of unwanted animals, as the stops 140 ofthe third link 132 are spring-biasly positioned in an upward positionabutting the bottom portion 30 of the flap 14.

Thus, when the knob 68 is in its second position of FIG. 5, the flap isable to pivot outwardly to allow the pet to egress or exit the housethrough the through-way 20. However, the knob second portion 78 preventsentry into the house through the inward pivoting of the flap 14 byengaging or abutting the bottom portion 30 of the flap 14.

With the knob 68 in the third position of FIG. 6, the knob's thirdportion 80 is positioned upwardly, and the low profile of the thirdportion 80 allows the flap 14 to swing inwardly (towards the interior ofthe house). However, the high profile of the stop wall third portion 88abuts and therefore prevents the flap 14 from swinging outwardly(towards the exterior of the house). Thus, the knob handle third portion80 does not hamper or prevent the inward movement of the flap 14, butthe stop wall 72 does prevent the outward movement of the flap. However,the latch mechanism 94 does prevent the inwardly movement of the flap 14to prevent the entrance or access of unwanted animals, as the stops 140of the third link 132 are spring biasly positioned in an upward positionabutting the bottom portion 30 of the flap 14.

However, when a pet having the appropriate transmitter 106 approachesthe pet door 10 from the outside or exterior, the wireless signal fromthe transmitter 106 is received by the receiver 104 and the signal issent to the microprocessor 102. The microprocessor 102 then energizesthe motor 96 to rotate the drive shaft 116 and first link 112 in acounterclockwise direction with respect to the figures shown in thedrawings. This movement of the first link 112 moves the second link 122downwardly, thereby pivoting the third link 132 downwardly against thebiasing force of spring 142. The movement of the third link moves thestops 140 of the L-shaped arms 138 to their retracted positions. Oncethe stops 140 are in their retracted positions, the flap 14 is free tomove inwardly to allow entrance of the pet.

Thus, when the knob 68 is in its third position of FIG. 6, the flap isprevented from pivoting outwardly to prevent the pet from egressing orexiting the house. The latch mechanism prevents entry into the housethrough the inward pivoting of the flap 14 through the upwardpositioning of the stops 140 of the third link 132, unless a wirelesssignal is transmitted from transmitter 106 and received by receiver 104to retract the stops 140 and allow entrance of the pet.

With the knob 68 in the fourth position of FIG. 7, the knob's fourthportion 82 is positioned upwardly, and the high profile of the fourthportion 82 prevents the flap 14 from swinging inwardly (towards theinterior of the house). Similarly, the high profile of the stop wallfourth portion 90 prevents the flap 14 from swinging outwardly (towardsthe exterior of the house). Thus, the knob 68 prevents the inwardmovement of the flap 14 while the stop wall 72 prevents the outwardmovement of the flap 14. The latch mechanism 94 also prevents theinwardly movement of the flap 14 to prevent the entrance or ingress ofunwanted animals, as the stops 140 of the third link 132 arespring-biasly positioned in an upward position abutting the bottomportion 30 of the flap 14.

Thus, when the knob 68 is in its fourth position, the flap 14 assumes alocked position and is unable to pivot in either direction and thereforeprevents passage of an animal through the through-way 20.

When the stops 140 of the third link 132 are in their upward, extendedposition through the biasing force of the spring 142, the stops 140 maybe placed in a manual mode via the on/off/programming switch 62 to allowthe inward pivoting of the flap 14, provided that the knob 68 is in itsfirst or third position. This allows for the manual operation of theflap 14 in case there is a problem with the wireless signal, the loss ofa transmitter 106, a low battery voltage, or other similar problem. Themanual actuation or depression of the stops 140 moves the third linkpivot pin 130 to move from the first portion 126 to the second portion128 of the second pivot pin opening 124. Thus, the second link 122 isnot required to move. The spring biasing force of spring 142automatically returns the third link pivot pin 130 to the first portion126, and thus the stops 140 to their extended position.

It should be understood that the positioning of the side walls 33 of theinterior U-shaped flange 31 within the slots 69 of the knob secondportion 78, alternatively described as the tongue 71 residing in theinterior groove 43, aids in restricting the unwanted opening of the flappast the knob 68 should off center pressure be applied to one side ofthe flap, as for example when an intruder animal unfamiliar with theoperation of the door pushes upon a side edge of the door to gainentrance. The interlocking of the interior flange side walls 33 with theslots 69 prevents lateral movement of the flap while also restricting aflexing of the flap under pressure. The engagement or abutment of theinterior flange end wall 35 beneath the bottom surface of the front endof the knob second portion 78, alternatively described as the tongue 71,further enhances the interlocking of the flap and knob.

Similarly, the positioning of the side walls 33 of the interior U-shapedflange 31 within the slots 69 of the knob fourth portion 82,alternatively described as the tongue 71 residing in the exterior groove45, aids in restricting the unwanted opening of the flap past the knob68 should an off center pressure be applied to one side of the flap, asfor example when an intruder animal unfamiliar with the operation of thedoor pushes upon on a side edge of the door to gain entrance. Theinterlocking of the interior flange side walls 33 with the slots 69prevents lateral movement of the flap while also restricting a flexingof the flap under pressure. Again, the engagement or abutment of theinterior flange end wall 35 beneath the bottom surface of the front endof the knob fourth portion 78, alternatively described as the tongue 71,further enhances the interlocking of the flap and knob.

The positioning of the side walls 39 of the exterior U-shaped flange 37within the slots 91 of the stop wall third portion 88 and stop wallfourth portion 90 aids in restricting the unwanted opening of the flappast the stop wall 72 should pressure be applied to one side of theflap, as for example when an animal unfamiliar with the operation of thedoor pushes upon it to exit. The interlocking of the exterior flangeside walls 39 with the slots 91 prevents lateral movement of the flapwhile also restricting a flexing of the flap under pressure. Theengagement or abutment of the exterior flange end wall 38 beneath thelip or bottom surface of the front end of the stop wall third and fourthportions, further enhances the interlocking of the flap and stop wall.

With reference next to FIG. 11-13, there is shown a pet door 200constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention. Here, the pet door 200 has the previously described flapinterior flange 31 and knob slots 69 reversed in relative position.Also, the slot(s) and side wall(s) are shown as one of each rather thantwo of each. As such, the pivotal flap 214 includes the cut-out or slot269′, while the knob 268 includes the interior flange or flange sidewall 233′ and the stop wall 272 includes the exterior flange or flangeside wall 233″. The slots 269′ and 269″ are configured to receive theflanges or side walls 233′ and 233″, respectively.

FIG. 11 shows the knob first portion 276 and stop wall first portion 284positioned ninety degrees counterclockwise from the upright position,i.e., shown at the 9 o'clock position. The low height of the knob firstportion 276 and stop wall first portion 284 allow the flap to pass overand thus do not prevent pivotal movement of the flap 214 when theseportions are in the upright position, i.e., the 12 o'clock position.

This also shows the knob fourth portion 282 and stop wall fourth portion290 at the upright position for contact or engagement with the flap 214,thus preventing the pivoting of the flap 214 in both the outward orexterior direction and the inward or interior direction. Here, the knobfourth portion 282 prevents inward pivotal movement of the flap 214,while the stop wall fourth portion 290 prevents outward pivotal movementof the flap 214. Thus, FIG. 11 is similar in relative positioning of theknob to previously described FIG. 7. The knob interior flange 233′ isconfigured to be received within the flap interior slot 269′, while thestop plate exterior flange 233″ is configured to be received within theflap exterior slot 269″.

FIG. 12 shows the knob second portion 278 and the stop wall secondportion 286 at the upright position, similar in relative positioning tothe knob in previously described FIG. 5. Here, the knob second portion278 prevents inward pivotal movement of the flap 214, while the stopwall second portion 286 allows for outward pivotal movement of the flap214. The interior flange or side wall 233′ of the knob second portion278 is configured to be received within the interior slot 269′ of theinterior side of the flap 214 to help prevent unwanted twisting andopening of the flap 214.

FIG. 13 shows the knob third portion 280 and the stop wall third portion288 at the upright position, similar in relative positioning to the knowin previously described FIG. 6. Here, the knob third portion 280 allowsfor inward pivotal movement of the flap 214, while the stop plate thirdportion 288 prevents outward pivotal movement of the flap 214. The stopwall exterior flange or side wall 233″ is received within the exteriorslot 269″ on the exterior side of the flap 214 to help prevent unwantedtwisting and opening of the flap 214.

In use, the flange or side walls 233′ and 233″ are received within theslots 269′ and 269″ of the flap to resist the flap from pivoting ortorqueing while in the pivotally restricted position, as previouslydescribed.

A pet door 10 of an embodiment is comprising a frame 12 and a flap 14pivotally coupled to the frame for inward and outward pivotal movement.The flap further comprising a top portion 26 and a bottom portion 30opposite the top portion. The bottom portion has an interior flange 31with at least one outwardly extending interior side wall 33. The petdoor also has a knob 68 rotatably coupled to the frame. The knob furthercomprises a first portion 76 with a select height to allow the inwardpivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the knob, a secondportion 78 with a select height to abut the flap bottom portion toprevent the inward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past theknob, a third portion 80 with a select height to allow the inwardpivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the knob, and a fourthportion 82 with a select height to abut the flap bottom portion toprevent the inward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past theknob. The knob also has a stop wall 72 having a stop wall first portion84 aligned with the knob first portion and having a select height toallow the outward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past thestop wall, a stop wall second portion 86 aligned with the knob secondportion and having a select height to allow the outward pivotal movementof the flap bottom portion past the stop wall, a stop wall third portion88 aligned with the knob third portion and having a select height toprevent the outward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past thestop wall, and a stop wall fourth portion 90 aligned with the knobfourth portion and having a select height to prevent the outward pivotalmovement of the flap bottom portion past the stop wall.

The pet door knob fourth portion has a slot or slots 69 configured toreceive the interior side wall or side walls of the interior flangeportion.

The pet door has an exterior flange 37 having at least one outwardlyextending exterior side wall 39, and wherein the stop wall third portionhas a slot or slots 91 configured to receive the side wall or side wallsof the exterior flange.

The pet door has an exterior flange 37 having at least one outwardlyextending exterior side wall 39, and wherein the stop wall fourthportion has a slot or slots 91 configured to receive the side wall orside walls of the exterior flange.

The pet door also comprises an automatic latching device 94.

The pet door also comprises the automatic latching device 94 having alinkage 110 coupled to an electric motor.

The pet door also comprises the linkage 110 comprising a first link 112in the form of a pivot arm coupled to the electric motor 96, a secondlink 122 pivotally coupled to the first link 112 opposite the electricmotor 96, and a third link 132 pivotally coupled to the second link 122and opposite the first link 112, wherein the third link 132 furthercomprises a stop 140 extending through the frame between a firstposition engaging the bottom portion of the flap and a second positiondisengaged from the bottom portion of the flap.

The pet door also comprises a spring 142 configured to bias the thirdlink 132 towards the first position.

The pet door also comprises the automatic latching device including awireless transmitter 106 and a wireless receiver 104 configured toenable wireless actuation of the latching device.

The pet door also comprising the wireless transmitter 106 is aninternally mountable wireless transmitter.

A pet door 10 of an embodiment is comprising a frame 12, a flap 14pivotally coupled to the frame with the flap further comprising a topportion 26 and a bottom portion 30 opposite the top portion. The petdoor 10 also has an automatic latching device 94 having linkage 110coupled to an electric motor, wherein the linkage further comprises afirst link 112 in the form of a pivot arm coupled to the electric motor,a second link 122 pivotally coupled to the first link opposite theelectric motor, and a third link 132 pivotally coupled to the secondlink opposite the first link. The third link further comprises a stop140 extending through the frame between a first position engaging thebottom portion of the flap and a second position disengaged from thebottom portion of the flap, and a spring 142 configured to bias thethird link 132 towards the first position.

A pet door 10 of an embodiment is comprising pet door comprising a frame12, a flap 14 pivotally coupled to the frame for inward and outwardpivotal movement, the flap having an interior surface with an interiorgroove 43, and a rotating member 68 rotatably coupled to the frame. Therotating member 68 includes an interior portion configured toselectively allow or prevent the inward pivotal movement of the flap 14depending upon the rotatable position of the interior portion 70, and anexterior portion configured to selectively allow or prevent the outwardpivotal movement of the flap depending upon the rotatable position ofthe exterior portion 72, wherein the rotating member interior portion 70being spaced from the rotating member exterior portion 72 to define aspace 74 therebetween configured to receive a portion of the flap 14.

The pet door also comprises the rotating member interior portion 70having a first portion 76 with a select height to allow the inwardpivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the interior portion, asecond portion 78 with a select height to abut the flap bottom portionto prevent the inward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion pastthe interior portion and having a tongue 71 configured to be receivedwithin the flap interior groove 43, a third portion 80 with a selectheight to allow the inward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portionpast the interior portion, and a fourth portion 82 with a select heightto abut the flap bottom portion to prevent the inward pivotal movementof the flap bottom portion past the interior portion.

The pet door also comprises the rotating member exterior portion 72having an exterior portion first portion 84 aligned with the interiorportion first portion 76 and having a select height to allow the outwardpivotal movement of the flap past the exterior portion, an exteriorportion second portion 86 aligned with the interior member secondportion 78 and having a select height to allow the outward pivotalmovement of the flap past the exterior portion, an exterior portionthird portion 88 aligned with the interior portion third portion 80 andhaving a select height to prevent the outward pivotal movement of theflap past the exterior portion, and an exterior portion fourth portion90 aligned with the interior portion fourth portion 82 and having aselect height to prevent the outward pivotal movement of the flap pastthe exterior portion.

A pet door of an embodiment is comprising a frame, a flap pivotallycoupled to the frame for inward and outward pivotal movement, and arotating member rotatably coupled to the frame. The rotating member isconfigured to have a first position which allows both inward and outwardpivotal movement of the flap, a second position which prevents inwardpivotal movement of the flap but allows outward pivotal movement of theflap, a third position which allows inward pivotal movement of the flapbut prevents outward pivotal movement of the flap, and a fourth positionwhich prevents both inward and outward pivotal movement of the flap.

A pet door of an embodiment is comprising a frame, a flap pivotallycoupled to the frame for inward and outward pivotal movement, the flapfurther comprising a top portion and a bottom portion opposite the topportion, the bottom portion having an interior slot, and a knobrotatably coupled to the frame. The knob further comprises a firstportion with a select height to allow the inward pivotal movement of theflap bottom portion past the knob, a second portion with a select heightto abut the flap bottom portion to prevent the inward pivotal movementof the flap bottom portion past the knob, the second portion having aflange configured to receive the interior slot, a third portion with aselect height to allow the inward pivotal movement of the flap bottomportion past the knob, and a fourth portion with a select height to abutthe flap bottom portion to prevent the inward pivotal movement of theflap bottom portion past the knob. The knob also has a stop wall whichcomprises a stop wall first portion aligned with the knob first portionand having a select height to allow the outward pivotal movement of theflap bottom portion past the stop wall, a stop wall second portionaligned with the knob second portion and having a select height to allowthe outward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the stopwall, a stop wall third portion aligned with the knob third portion andhaving a select height to prevent the outward pivotal movement of theflap bottom portion past the stop wall, and a stop wall fourth portionaligned with the knob fourth portion and having a select height toprevent the outward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past thestop wall.

The pet door also comprises the knob fourth portion having a flangeconfigured to receive the interior slot.

The pet door also comprises at least one exterior slot, and wherein thestop wall third portion has an exterior flange configured to receive theexterior slot.

The pet door also comprises at least one exterior slot, and wherein thestop wall fourth portion has an exterior flange configured to receivethe exterior slot.

Lastly, it should be understood that while the pet door has beendescribed herein as a pet door, the use of the term “electronic” may beincluded because this is the form of the preferred embodiment shown inthe drawings. However, the configuration of the knob shown herein may beused with a non-electronic or manual pet door. As such, the knob is notlimited to use with an electronic pet door, but may be used with anytype of pet door.

It will be appreciated that the inventions are susceptible tomodification, variation, and change without departing from the spiritthereof.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A pet door comprising: a frame; a flappivotally coupled to the frame for inward and outward pivotal movement,the flap further comprising a top portion and a bottom portion oppositethe top portion, the bottom portion having an interior flange with atleast one outwardly extending interior side wall, and a knob rotatablycoupled to the frame; wherein the knob further comprises: a firstportion with a select height to allow the inward pivotal movement of theflap bottom portion past the knob; a second portion with a select heightto abut the flap bottom portion to prevent the inward pivotal movementof the flap bottom portion past the knob, the second portion having aslot configured to receive the interior side wall of the interiorflange; a third portion with a select height to allow the inward pivotalmovement of the flap bottom portion past the knob; and a fourth portionwith a select height to abut the flap bottom portion to prevent theinward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the knob; and astop wall, wherein the stop wall further comprises: a stop wall firstportion aligned with the knob first portion and having a select heightto allow the outward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion pastthe stop wall; a stop wall second portion aligned with the knob secondportion and having a select height to allow the outward pivotal movementof the flap bottom portion past the stop wall; a stop wall third portionaligned with the knob third portion and having a select height toprevent the outward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past thestop wall; and a stop wall fourth portion aligned with the knob fourthportion and having a select height to prevent the outward pivotalmovement of the flap bottom portion past the stop wall.
 2. The pet doorof claim 1, further comprising an automatic latching device.
 3. The petdoor of claim 2 wherein the automatic latching device includes awireless transmitter and a wireless receiver configured to enablewireless actuation of the latching device.
 4. The pet door of claim 1,wherein the knob fourth portion has a slot configured to receive theinterior side wall of the interior flange portion.
 5. The pet door ofclaim 4 wherein the interior flange also includes an interior end wallextending from the interior side wall, and wherein the interior end wallis positioned to engage a bottom surface of the interior knob fourthportion.
 6. The pet door of claim 1 further comprising an exteriorflange having at least one outwardly extending exterior side wall, andwherein the stop wall third portion has a slot configured to receive theexterior side wall of the exterior flange.
 7. The pet door of claim 6wherein the stop wall third portion has a lip, and the exterior flangeha an exterior end wall configured to be received below the lip of thestop wall third portion.
 8. The pet door of claim 1 further comprisingan exterior flange having at least one outwardly extending exterior sidewall, and wherein the stop wall fourth portion has a slot configured toreceive the exterior side wall of the exterior flange.
 9. The pet doorof claim 1 wherein the interior flange also includes an interior endwall extending from the interior side wall, and wherein the interior endwall is positioned to engage a bottom surface of the interior knobsecond portion.
 10. The pet door of claim 9 wherein the interior endwall is positioned to engage a bottom surface of the interior knobfourth portion.
 11. The pet door of claim 1 wherein the interior flangeincludes two interior side walls and an end wall extending between thetwo interior side walls, and wherein the knob second portion has twoslots, wherein each of the slots of the two slots is configured toreceive one interior side wall, and wherein the interior end wall ispositioned to engage a bottom surface of the knob second portion.
 12. Apet door comprising: a frame; a flap pivotally coupled to the frame forinward and outward pivotal movement, the flap having an interior surfacehaving an interior groove, and a rotating member rotatably coupled tothe frame; wherein the rotating member includes an interior portionconfigured to selectively allow or prevent the inward pivotal movementof the flap depending upon the rotatable position of the interiorportion, and an exterior portion configured to selectively allow orprevent the outward pivotal movement of the flap depending upon therotatable position of the exterior portion, the rotating member interiorportion being spaced from the rotating member exterior portion to definea space therebetween configured to receive a portion of the flap, therotating member interior portion includes: a first portion with a selectheight to allow the inward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portionpast the interior portion; a second portion with a select height to abutthe flap bottom portion to prevent the inward pivotal movement of theflap bottom portion past the interior portion, the second portion havinga second portion interior tongue configured to be received within theflap interior groove; a third portion with a select height to allow theinward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the interiorportion; and a fourth portion with a select height to abut the flapbottom portion to prevent the inward pivotal movement of the flap bottomportion past the interior portion; and a stop wall, wherein the stopwall further comprises.
 13. The pet door of claim 12 wherein therotating member exterior portion includes: an exterior portion firstportion aligned with the interior portion first portion and having aselect height to allow the outward pivotal movement of the flap past theexterior portion; an exterior portion second portion aligned with theinterior member second portion and having a select height to allow theoutward pivotal movement of the flap past the exterior portion; anexterior portion third portion aligned with the interior portion thirdportion and having a select height to prevent the outward pivotalmovement of the flap past the exterior portion; and an exterior portionfourth portion aligned with the interior portion fourth portion andhaving a select height to prevent the outward pivotal movement of theflap past the exterior portion.
 14. The pet door of claim 13 wherein theflap has an exterior surface having an exterior groove, and wherein theexterior portion third portion has an exterior tongue configured to bereceived within the flap exterior groove.
 15. The pet door of claim 14wherein the flap has an exterior surface having an exterior groove, andwherein the exterior portion fourth portion has a fourth portionexterior tongue configured to be received within the flap exteriorgroove.
 16. The pet door of claim 13 wherein the flap has an exteriorsurface having an exterior groove, and wherein the exterior portionfourth portion has a fourth portion exterior tongue configured to bereceived within the flap exterior groove.
 17. The pet door of claim 12,further comprising an automatic latching device.
 18. The pet door ofclaim 17 wherein the automatic latching device includes a wirelesstransmitter and a wireless receiver configured to enable wirelessactuation of the latching device.
 19. The pet door of claim 12, whereinthe rotating member interior portion fourth portion has a fourth portioninterior tongue configured to be received within the flap interiorgroove.
 20. The pet door of claim 12 wherein the flap interior grooveincludes an interior end wall, and wherein the interior end wall ispositioned to engage a bottom surface of the tongue of the rotatingmember interior portion second portion.
 21. The pet door of claim 20wherein the interior end wall is positioned to engage a bottom surfaceof the tongue of the rotating member interior portion fourth portion.22. The pet door of claim 12 wherein the flap interior groove includesan interior end wall, and wherein the interior end wall is positioned toengage a bottom surface of the tongue of the rotating member interiorportion fourth portion.
 23. The pet door of claim 12 wherein theinterior groove includes two interior side walls and an end wallextending between the two interior side walls.
 24. A pet doorcomprising: a frame; a flap pivotally coupled to the frame for inwardand outward pivotal movement, the flap further comprising a top portionand a bottom portion opposite the top portion, the bottom portion havingan interior flange having two outwardly extending interior flange walls,and a knob rotatably coupled to the frame; wherein the knob furthercomprises: a first portion with a select height to allow the inwardpivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the knob; a secondportion with a select height to abut the flap bottom portion to preventthe inward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the knob,the second portion having two slots, each slot configured to receive oneinterior flange wall of the two interior flange walls; a third portionwith a select height to allow the inward pivotal movement of the flapbottom portion past the knob; and a fourth portion with a select heightto abut the flap bottom portion to prevent the inward pivotal movementof the flap bottom portion past the knob; and a stop wall having a stopwall first portion aligned with the knob first portion and having aselect height to allow the outward pivotal movement of the flap bottomportion past the stop wall, a stop wall second portion aligned with theknob second portion and having a select height to allow the outwardpivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the stop wall, a stopwall third portion aligned with the knob third portion and having aselect height to prevent the outward pivotal movement of the flap bottomportion past the stop wall; and a stop wall fourth portion aligned withthe knob fourth portion and having a select height to prevent theoutward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the stop wall.25. The pet door of claim 24, wherein the knob fourth portion has twoslots, each slot configured to receive one interior flange wall of thetwo interior flange walls.
 26. The pet door of claim 25 wherein theinterior flange also includes an interior end wall extending from thetwo interior flange walls, and wherein the interior end wall ispositioned to engage a bottom surface of the interior knob fourthportion.
 27. The pet door of claim 24 further comprising an exteriorflange having two outwardly extending exterior flange wall, and whereinthe stop wall third portion has two slots, each stop wall third portionslot being configured to receive one exterior flange wall of the twooutwardly extending exterior flange walls.
 28. The pet door of claim 27wherein the exterior flange has an exterior end wall extending betweenthe exterior flange walls, and wherein the stop wall has two slots and alip between the two slots, each stop wall fourth portion slot beingconfigured to receive one exterior flange wall of the two outwardlyextending exterior flange walls and the exterior end wall beingpositioned below the lip of the stop wall.
 29. The pet door of claim 24further comprising an exterior flange having two outwardly extendingexterior flange wall, and wherein the stop wall fourth portion has twoslots, each stop wall fourth portion slot being configured to receiveone exterior flange wall of the two outwardly extending exterior flangewalls.
 30. The pet door of claim 24 wherein the interior flange alsoincludes an interior end wall extending from the two interior flangewalls, and wherein the interior end wall is positioned to engage abottom surface of the interior knob second portion.
 31. The pet door ofclaim 30 wherein the interior end wall is positioned to engage a bottomsurface of the interior knob fourth portion.
 32. The pet door of claim24, further comprising an automatic latching device.
 33. The pet door ofclaim 32 wherein the automatic latching device includes a wirelesstransmitter and a wireless receiver configured to enable wirelessactuation of the latching device.
 34. A pet door comprising: a frame; aflap pivotally coupled to the frame for inward and outward pivotalmovement, the flap further comprising a top portion and a bottom portionopposite the top portion, the bottom portion having an interior slot,and a knob rotatably coupled to the frame; wherein the knob furthercomprises: a first portion with a select height to allow the inwardpivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the knob; a secondportion with a select height to abut the flap bottom portion to preventthe inward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the knob,the second portion having a flange configured to receive the interiorslot; a third portion with a select height to allow the inward pivotalmovement of the flap bottom portion past the knob; and a fourth portionwith a select height to abut the flap bottom portion to prevent theinward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past the knob; and astop wall, wherein the stop wall further comprises: a stop wall firstportion aligned with the knob first portion and having a select heightto allow the outward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion pastthe stop wall; a stop wall second portion aligned with the knob secondportion and having a select height to allow the outward pivotal movementof the flap bottom portion past the stop wall; a stop wall third portionaligned with the knob third portion and having a select height toprevent the outward pivotal movement of the flap bottom portion past thestop wall; and a stop wall fourth portion aligned with the knob fourthportion and having a select height to prevent the outward pivotalmovement of the flap bottom portion past the stop wall.
 35. The pet doorof claim 34, further comprising an automatic latching device.
 36. Thepet door of claim 35 wherein the automatic latching device includes awireless transmitter and a wireless receiver configured to enablewireless actuation of the latching device.
 37. The pet door of claim 34,wherein the knob fourth portion has a flange configured to receive theinterior slot.
 38. The pet door of claim 34 further comprising at leastone exterior slot, and wherein the stop wall third portion has anexterior flange configured to receive the exterior slot.
 39. The petdoor of claim 38 wherein the stop wall fourth portion has an exteriorflange configured to receive the exterior slot.
 40. The pet door ofclaim 34 further comprising at least one exterior slot, and wherein thestop wall fourth portion has an exterior flange configured to receivethe exterior slot.